What are the penalties for violating patient privacy?

• A. Verbal counseling only.
• B. Monetary fines only.
• C. Fines, imprisonment, possible license revocation.
• D. Public service announcements.

Answer: (C)

Violating patient privacy triggers a range of consequences aimed at accountability and protecting patients, including financial penalties, criminal penalties, and professional sanctions. Financial penalties (fines) can be civil penalties assessed by enforcement agencies for breaches of privacy rules. Criminal penalties may apply for more severe or intentional disclosures, potentially including imprisonment. Professional sanctions from licensing boards can lead to suspension or revocation of a practitioner’s license, affecting the ability to practice. This combination reflects that patient privacy violations are treated seriously across multiple fronts to deter breaches and uphold ethical standards.

Verbal counseling alone is insufficient because it does not impose meaningful accountability. Monetary fines alone miss the possibility of criminal penalties and licensure consequences. Public service announcements are not penalties and do not address the enforcement actions that can follow a privacy breach.